This week in Tunbridge Wells:

Homes Approved Amidst Resident Concerns

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, to consider several applications, with a new dwelling in Langton Green sparking significant debate. While the committee ultimately approved the development, local residents voiced strong objections regarding its impact on the neighbourhood's character.

New Dwelling Approved at 23 Newlands, Langton Green

Planning permission was granted for a new dwelling and landscaping at 23 Newlands, Langton Green. Local resident David Bramble argued that the development would negatively affect the open and spacious character of the estate and limit future housing choices. He expressed concern that the proposed building's dimensions were still too imposing.

Charlie Cadswell, representing the applicant, countered that the proposal represented a small windfall development that makes efficient use of land within existing settlements. He highlighted that the current application differed significantly from a previous scheme for ten dwellings that was dismissed on appeal in 2019, noting this new proposal is for a single 1.5-storey dwelling set further from neighbouring boundaries. Amendments were made to address community concerns, including moving the building further from neighbouring properties and removing first-floor windows facing one neighbour.

Councillor Senke, the ward member, had called in the application due to concerns about the impact of the built form on neighbouring amenity, specifically overbearing impact, loss of outlook, and enclosure. He also noted the relevant planning history and significant local concern.

Councillor Pound proposed approving the officer's recommendation, acknowledging that while local residents would be upset, the site was large and the development was within the limits of built development. Councillor Pitts seconded the motion, adding that the proposed dwelling had been amended to reduce harm to neighbouring properties and that the design was in keeping with the area. A condition was added regarding the submission of details for the chimney design. The decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Alterations to Longford House Approved

Changes to Longford House, at 19 Mount Ephraim Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, were approved. The application sought permission for a change of use from offices to a healthcare establishment (Use Class C2), along with the construction of a mansard roof extension, courtyard infill, and alterations to the fire staircase and underground car park.

Richard Hazelgrove, presenting the application, explained that the previous permission for a surgery clinic had minimal external changes, whereas this application included a mansard roof and a re-clad fire escape. He confirmed that while some undercroft parking would be removed, it would be re-provided, resulting in no net loss of parking spaces.

Councillor Darrah expressed concern about parking arrangements, but Mr Hazelgrove assured the committee that the parking issue had been carefully reviewed, with no net loss of spaces and consideration given to the sustainable location and potential for alternative travel modes. Councillor Pound inquired about noise conditions related to the mansard roof, and an informative was added to encourage surveyors to consider noise impacts on nearby properties in Lime Hill Road. Councillor Neville proposed accepting the officer's recommendation, seconded by Councillor Darrah, with the additional informative regarding noise testing. The decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Changes to Use and Signage in The Pantiles Approved

Several applications relating to properties in The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, were approved.

• Foundation, Dowding, Frant and Royal Victoria Houses, The Corn Exchange, and Sussex Mews: Permission was granted for the addition of Use Class F1A (education) to existing commercial premises. Ms Starkey explained that the aim was to enhance the range of facilities available. Councillor Pound proposed approving the officer's recommendation, stating that any development contributing to the regeneration of The Pantiles was positive. The decision was unanimous.

• 27 The Pantiles (Advertisement Consent): Retrospective advertisement consent was granted for a hanging sign and an A-frame display board at 27 The Pantiles. Mr Murphy explained that the signs were common features in The Pantiles and would not appear incongruous. Councillor Kent expressed concerns about the A-frame board's accessibility for visually impaired people and suggested a condition for it to be placed next to the building. An informative was agreed upon to recommend its proximity to the building's frontage. The decision was unanimous.

• 27 The Pantiles (Listed Building Consent): Listed building consent was granted for a fascia sign at 27 The Pantiles. Mr Murphy stated that the sign did not impact the historic fabric of the Grade 2 listed building and was reversible. While conservation and urban design officers would have preferred hand-painted lettering, no harm was identified. Councillor Darrah suggested a condition that the sign be temporary for the current tenant, but it was explained that listed building consent relates to the fabric of the building, and the current sign was deemed acceptable. Councillor Neville proposed accepting the officer's recommendation, seconded by Councillor Pitts, and the decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Other Matters

Minutes of Previous Meeting Confirmed

The minutes of the previous Planning Committee meeting held on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, were confirmed as a true record of the proceedings.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

This week in Tunbridge Wells:

Council Tackles Housing Crisis with New Support Policy

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's Cabinet met this week, making a significant decision to adopt a new Housing Payments policy. This policy, which replaces Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) and the Household Support Fund (HSF), will operate under the new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) from April 2026. The aim is to prevent homelessness, help people secure new tenancies, and alleviate poverty.

The council is allocating £130,000 annually to this fund, a figure that will be integrated into the CRF in two years. Crucially, the policy has been developed in conjunction with the Housing Team to ensure it aligns with the Renters' Rights Act, which comes into effect on May 1st, 2026. This means that vulnerable residents facing housing insecurity will have access to support that is compliant with new tenant protections.

The stakes are high for those struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Without this support, individuals and families could face eviction, leading to the immense stress and instability of homelessness. The policy aims to provide a crucial safety net, preventing people from falling through the cracks.

• Key Impact: Prevents homelessness and supports vulnerable residents in securing and maintaining affordable tenancies.
• Funding: £130,000 annually, integrated into the Crisis and Resilience Fund.
• Legislation Alignment: Complies with the Renters' Rights Act 2026.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Royal Victoria Place Regeneration Moves Forward

The future of Royal Victoria Place (RVP) is a key concern for many residents, and this week, the Cabinet endorsed the RVP business plan for 2026-27. The plan focuses on revitalising the shopping centre, aiming to increase its vibrancy, secure vacant development zones, and attract new national brands.

This regeneration effort is vital for the town centre's economy and for providing residents with a thriving retail and leisure destination. The plan outlines strategies to reduce landlord shortfalls and improve RVP's perception as a retail hub. While the plan builds on previous stabilisation efforts, it acknowledges that significant work remains, particularly with the planned redevelopment at the Ely Court end.

The council has been actively engaging with the community on these plans, with over 600 people attending recent events and submitting feedback. A key theme emerging from this engagement is the future of the Victoria Snooker Hall, with the council committed to constructive discussions with its owners to support the club in finding alternative premises within the town centre.

• Focus: Stabilising and regenerating the shopping centre, attracting new brands, and progressing development designs.
• Community Engagement: Over 600 attendees at recent events, with ongoing dialogue regarding the Victoria Snooker Hall.
• Economic Impact: Aims to boost the town centre economy and create a more attractive retail destination.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

New Contract for Household Waste and Street Cleansing

A significant decision was made regarding the future of household waste and street cleansing services. The Cabinet recommended to Full Council the award of a new joint contract with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, set to commence in April 2027.

For residents, the good news is that there will be no change to current collection methodologies or frequencies. The council is already meeting government requirements for simpler recycling, with the addition of carton collections starting next month and flexible plastics to be included in the new contract. This ensures a consistent service for households while preparing for future recycling advancements.

The procurement process has been extensive, involving a multidisciplinary team to ensure a robust contract. The council is also exploring options for vehicle funding and an open-book accounting approach to contract finances, which could lead to future cost efficiencies.

• Service Continuity: No change to current waste and street cleansing collection methods or frequencies.
• Enhanced Recycling: Inclusion of carton collections from April and flexible plastics in the new contract.
• Joint Contract: Collaboration with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council for efficiency.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Other Matters

Community Safety Priorities Set for 2026-27

The Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-27 was endorsed by the Cabinet. The plan outlines five key priorities: domestic abuse, anti-social behaviour (including business-related crime), substance abuse, road safety, and stalking and violence against women and girls. While overall crime has decreased, the plan acknowledges increases in certain offences and details actions to address these, including support for domestic abuse survivors and targeted interventions for anti-social behaviour.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Dogs to be on Leads in The Grove Park

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) requiring dogs to be kept on leads in The Grove Park was agreed. This decision follows extensive consultation, with 57% of respondents in favour. The PSPO aims to balance access for all park users and will be in effect until October 2027, with an exemption for assistance dogs. Enforcement will initially focus on education.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Housing Assistance Policy Updated

The Housing Assistance Policy for 2026-30 was adopted. This policy sets out the council's approach to grants and financial assistance for home adaptations, improvements, repairs, and energy efficiency measures. Key changes include expanding some grants, such as the Disabled Facilities Grant, and making others more generous. Accessibility for armed forces veterans has also been improved by excluding certain compensation schemes and service pensions from the means test for the Disabled Facilities Grant.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Biodiversity Duty Report Approved

The council's first statutory Biodiversity Duty Report, covering February 2024 to January 2026, was approved. This report details actions taken and planned to conserve and enhance biodiversity across the borough, fulfilling a legal obligation under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Planning Application Validation Checklist and Statement of Community Involvement to be Consulted On

Draft updates to the Tunbridge Wells Local Validation List and the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) were approved for public consultation. The updated validation list integrates new policies from the adopted Local Plan to clarify information requirements for planning applications. The revised SCI outlines how the council will involve the community in planning matters, reflecting changes in national planning policy.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Neighbourhood Development Plans Progress to Referendum

The Sandhurst Neighbourhood Development Plan and the Southborough and High Brooms Neighbourhood Development Plan have both been progressed to referendum. Independent examiners found that both plans meet the basic conditions, subject to recommended modifications which have been accepted by the respective parish and town councils. If the referenda are positive, these plans will become part of the statutory development plan.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Performance Summary Quarter 3

The service performance summary for Quarter 3 of 2025-26 was noted. Of the 21 performance indicators, 15 are performing well, with one underperforming: the collection of council tax. The council is confident that collection rates are on track for recovery. The Assembly Hall Theatre's drop call rate has also shown significant improvement following the implementation of a recovery plan.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Refreshed Health Inequalities Action Plan Adopted

The refreshed Health Inequalities Action Plan for 2026-29 was adopted. This plan, developed by the Tunbridge Wells Health Action Team, focuses on five priority areas: mental health, loneliness and isolation, addictions, obesity and physical inactivity, and people with disabilities and older people. The plan emphasises collaboration, prevention, and targeted support for those most at risk of poor health outcomes.

Read the full Cabinet meeting details here

Overview and Scrutiny Committee Reviews Key Issues

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 23rd March to discuss the Community Safety Partnership Plan, parking and parking enforcement, and homelessness and housing providers. The committee also reviewed the draft annual report and work programme. Discussions included the funding of domestic abuse support services, the challenges of disaggregating crime data for specific areas, and the upcoming legislation on pavement parking. The committee also established a task and finish group to investigate issues surrounding South East Water.

Read the full Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting details here

In the past week, the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council held several meetings, including the Cabinet on Thursday, 20 June 2024, the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Monday, 17 June 2024, and the Planning Committee on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.

Cabinet Meeting

The Cabinet meeting on Thursday, 20 June 2024, was particularly impactful, focusing on key decisions that will shape the future of the borough.

Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan

One of the most significant decisions was the approval of the Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan to proceed to a referendum. This plan has been in development for several years and has now been reviewed by an independent examiner. The Cabinet agreed to publish the examiner's recommendations, approve the modifications, and move the plan to a referendum scheduled for 5 September 2024. If the referendum is positive, the plan will become part of the statutory development plan for Capel Parish.

High Weald AONB Management Plan

The Cabinet also approved the High Weald AONB Management Plan for 2024-2029. This plan, developed in collaboration with 14 other councils, aims to manage and conserve the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Key elements include a service level agreement with East Sussex, a revised financial contribution, and the adoption of a Dark Skies Planning Advice Note to minimize light pollution.

Performance Summary and Complaints

The Cabinet reviewed the performance summary for the fourth quarter of the financial year 2023/2024. Key performance indicators showed that while most targets were met, there were areas of concern, such as the number of sick days lost to illness and the percentage of parking transactions paid by Ringo. The Cabinet also reviewed the complaints summary for quarters 3 and 4, noting that waste and street scene, revenues and benefits, and planning were the top three services attracting complaints.

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Monday, 17 June 2024, focused on reviewing the annual report and considering the work programme for the upcoming year.

Annual Report

The committee reviewed the annual report, which summarizes the work carried out over the past year, including task and finish groups, called-in items, and presentations by councillors and portfolio holders. The report will be presented to the full council for final approval in July.

Work Programme

The committee discussed potential topics for the work programme, including inviting Town and Country Housing to discuss their performance and maintenance plans, and reviewing the effectiveness of the Joint Transportation Board (JTB). The committee also considered forming task and finish groups to look into council accessibility and the operation of the JTB.

Planning Committee

The Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, included several key applications.

Benenden Hospital Development

The committee reviewed an application for the redevelopment of the Benenden Hospital site, which includes 87 new dwellings. The application was deferred to allow further discussions with the developer about financial contributions and infrastructure support.

Rocklands Cottage Parking

The committee approved an application for the creation of parking at Rocklands Cottage on Sandrock Road. The proposal includes a drop curb, fencing alterations, and the installation of surfacing, with conditions to ensure no trees are removed and visibility splays are maintained.

Implications

The decisions and discussions from these meetings have several implications:

1. Community Planning: The progression of the Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan and the approval of the High Weald AONB Management Plan highlight the council's commitment to community-led planning and environmental conservation.
2. Infrastructure and Services: The deferral of the Benenden Hospital development application underscores the importance of ensuring adequate infrastructure and services to support new developments.
3. Performance and Accountability: The review of performance indicators and complaints emphasizes the council's focus on transparency and continuous improvement in service delivery.

These meetings reflect the council's ongoing efforts to manage growth, support community initiatives, and ensure the effective delivery of services across the borough.

In the past week, the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council held two significant meetings: the Corporate Cabinet Advisory Board on Monday, 3 June 2024, and the Communities Cabinet Advisory Board on Tuesday, 4 June 2024.

Corporate Cabinet Advisory Board

The Corporate Cabinet Advisory Board meeting focused on several key financial and administrative matters.

Strategic Risk Register

The Council reaffirmed its Strategic Risk Register for the upcoming year. This register identifies and manages risks that could impact the Council's operations. The responsibility for overseeing these risks will now pass to the Audit and Governance Committee.

Financial Reports

Three critical financial reports were presented:

1. Capital Management Report: The Council's capital expenditure for the year was £15.9 million, with significant investments in the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre and local housing initiatives.
2. Revenue Management Report: The Council reported a £3.7 million underspend and a £4.7 million surplus in income, driven by increased parking and rental income.
3. Treasury and Prudential Indicator Management Report: The Council achieved an interest income of £3.342 million, significantly above the budgeted amount, due to higher interest rates and increased funds available for investment.

Performance and Complaints

The Council reviewed its performance indicators and complaints summary for the past quarter. Notably, the number of working days lost to sickness was high, and there was a significant increase in the use of healthy living services. The Council also discussed the importance of improving response times for phone calls and addressing public complaints more effectively.

Communities Cabinet Advisory Board

The Communities Cabinet Advisory Board meeting was particularly impactful, focusing on the High Weald AONB Management Plan and the Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan.

High Weald AONB Management Plan

The Board discussed the High Weald AONB Management Plan, which has been updated for 2024-2029. The plan, developed in collaboration with 14 other authorities, aims to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the High Weald area. Key recommendations include:

• Adopting the new management plan.
• Approving a service level agreement and future funding.
• Implementing a Dark Skies Planning Advice Notice to reduce light pollution.

Councillor Warren emphasized the importance of the plan:

The management plan is produced for our benefit, so I think it might be helpful to understand the kind of purpose of the management plan, you know, whether it's just there as a guide for planning or whether it's actually an informative document that we should be considering as a public body in other areas of our work. — Councillor Warren

Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan

The Board also reviewed the Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan, which has been in development since 2020. The plan has passed an independent examination and will proceed to a referendum on 5 September 2024. If successful, it will become part of the statutory development plan for Capel Parish. Councillor Farewell praised the effort:

Well done to Capel in joining that list on the borough now to getting to this stage. Why would we not support it, especially with the reassuring news that the Capel Parish Council have fully taken on board the recommendations of the independent examiner. — Councillor Farewell

Implications

The discussions and decisions from these meetings have several implications:

1. Financial Stability: The Council's strong financial performance and prudent management of resources provide a solid foundation for future investments and initiatives.
2. Environmental Stewardship: The adoption of the High Weald AONB Management Plan underscores the Council's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
3. Community Engagement: The progression of the Capel Neighbourhood Development Plan highlights the importance of community involvement in local planning and decision-making processes.

These meetings reflect the Council's ongoing efforts to manage financial resources effectively, promote sustainable development, and engage with the community to address local needs and priorities.